Sean Adkins has over a decade of economic development experience across multiple East Coast states. He currently serves as Town Manager of St. Albans, Vermont, where he uses his econ dev background to help the small town. Adkins shares insights into the differences between robust economic development support in Virginia versus the more isolated, self-reliant approach in Vermont.

One of his most surprising projects was leading development of a childcare facility in rural Virginia, despite not having kids himself. The intensive childcare facility regulations and community resistance he encountered shows the breadth of challenges econ dev professionals take on. Adkins stresses public servants genuinely try to serve local needs, though projects often require compromise.

He also discusses his favorite book, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, and the life philosophy behind its metaphors.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Sean Adkins.

Sponsored By:

KathodeRay Media, Inc.: ![KathodeRay](https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/f/f078f684-f72f-4a43-957d-de3aff69810b/pIhKskzG.jpg) [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

A Kitchen Garden, The Trossachs Explorer and 200 Years of the Modern Railway

Scotland Outdoors

Onboard atmosphere and design of the service

The AI-powered Podcast Player